LABOUR & EDUCATION

It is estimated the industry will need another 2,000 permanent employees and 4,000 seasonal employees within the next few years. This future growth is dependent on the ability to attract and retain young people who are highly skilled and enthusiastic and develop them to become our industry’s future leaders.

Horticulture is an industry on the rise; sectors and businesses have set ambitious growth targets of $10 billion by 2020, yet many businesses are struggling to find people to work in the industry. The Ministry of Primary Industries 2014 People Powered Report identified that currently, the industry does not have the people capability to meet horticulture’s export targets.

The report states that an increase of 7,800 people and 14,900 more workers with qualifications are needed by 2025. In an effort to address this resourcing need, NZKGI has become increasingly focused on careers and education within the industry; we work to connect with students and open their eyes to the endless career opportunities available to them in New Zealand’s thriving horticulture industry.

The Kiwifruit Book

The Kiwifruit Book is a free resource for secondary school teachers and new growers covering relevant and current information; from the kiwifruit industry structure to methods kiwifruit growers use to protect their orchards from frost.

Please email NZKGI or call 0800 232 505 if you would like more information on featured topics in this book, or to contribute to the next edition.

NZKGI Horticulture Career Pathways

The NZKGI Horticulture Career Pathways Illustration shows the wide range of career opportunities available within the horticulture industry. From science careers to orchard management positions use this illustration to find your pathway into a career in horticulture.

MPI Resources

MPI have developed “using SOPI in schools” resources for teachers to use in the classroom. Kiwifruit industry specific learning activities for mathematics, science, social studies and technology lessons are available here.